As The Patriot Ledger celebrates 175 years of publication this year, we're taking a look at other local businesses with big anniversaries in 2012. We interviewed Kim Ford, owner of Young World in Quincy, about her business as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.

The Patriot Ledger, Quincy, MA

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Posted Sep. 7, 2012 at 12:01 AM
Updated Sep 7, 2012 at 7:06 AM

Posted Sep. 7, 2012 at 12:01 AM
Updated Sep 7, 2012 at 7:06 AM

QUINCY

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We interviewed Kim Ford, owner of Young World in Quincy, about her business as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. The following is an edited version of that exchange. How has your business changed since its inception?

While Young World’s core philosophy of developing children’s self-confidence by letting them learn in a fun and supportive environment has never changed, we are constantly evolving with the trends of the day. We had disco in the 1970s, break dancing in the ’80s, country line dancing in the ’90s and we have hip-hop today – although we never lose focus on the traditional tap, ballet and jazz that we’ve always offered.

In 1968, Young World began teaching children physical education at parochial elementary schools in Quincy and quickly grew to service as many as 100 schools in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Hampshire. In the mid-1970s we also introduced a full gymnastics program.

How has your industry changed over that time?

In the past several years the number of dance schools has increased dramatically. Television shows, like “So You Think You Can Dance,” have definitely piqued the interest of girls and boys alike nationwide.

What kind of changes do you see on the horizon?

In the short term, following this year’s Olympics we are already seeing a lot more interest in our gymnastic program. Classes are scheduled to begin on Monday and we are adding more classes to keep up with the demand.

In the long term, we are excited about the Quincy Center redevelopment project and the potential growth it represents for Quincy. Although we may find ourselves needing to move, we are looking forward to staying in the Quincy Center area for many years and growing our programs as Quincy grows as well.

How does your business differentiate itself from its competitors?

Young World offers both dance and gymnastics for girls and boys. Although we are one of many dance studios in the region, we are the only facility that offers gymnastics in Quincy. After 50 years in business, we are now teaching second and third generations of families from Quincy and surrounding communities. We are very proud of the loyalty our customers show us. In many cases they are like extended family.

What are some of the advantages and challenges of doing business in this region?

We embrace the ethnic diversity of Quincy and the surrounding region. Even if there are language difficulties at times, children always end up eager to engage in the fun our dance and gymnastics classes have to offer.

If your business is celebrating a milestone in 2012, share it with us. We'll be gathering information to presented online or in print as we celebrate The Patriot Ledger's 175th anniversary this year. Fill out our form to send us your details.